For fans of Jennifer Holm (Penny from Heaven, Turtle in Paradise),
a heartfelt and unforgettable middle-grade novel about an irresistible
girl and her family, tragic change, and the healing power of love and
friendship. In 1972 home is a cozy nest on Cape Cod for eleven-year-old
Naomi “Chirp” Orenstein, her older sister, Rachel; her psychiatrist
father; and her dancer mother. But then Chirp’s mom develops symptoms of
a serious disease, and everything changes.
Chirp finds comfort in
watching her beloved wild birds. She also finds a true friend in Joey,
the mysterious boy who lives across the street. Together they create
their own private world and come up with the perfect plan: Escape.
Adventure. Discovery. Nest is Esther Ehrlich’s stunning
debut novel. Her lyrical writing is honest, humorous, and deeply
affecting. Chirp and Joey will steal your heart. Long after you finish Nest, the spirit of Chirp and her loving family will stay with you.

My ReviewNest by Esther Ehrlich

Family tragedies, such as illness and death are deeply tumultuous and emotional times. To see, feel and live these times through the eyes and heart of a child can be humbling and heartbreaking as well as enlightening and priceless. Nest by Esther Ehrlich is the tale of young Chirp’s journey through the illness and death of her beautiful mother, as well as a look at the family dynamics through the eyes and simple wisdom of youth.

Powerful and emotionally charged, yet simple in its message, Nest may be one of the best tales of raw humanity out there. Written with younger readers in mind, the value and insight to be gained by ALL readers is beyond measure. Esther Ehrlich has written from her heart and soul, digging deep with each word, each emotional scene to bring her world to life. There is no fast pace, no quick resolutions, but there is heart, love and characters that will steal your tears as they step off the page with memorable grace. I highly recommend this magnificent read for ALL ages!

I received an ARC edition from Mary Lamb Books in exchange for my honest review.